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Dog's popped boil left a deep wound. Does it need stitches or meds?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 11 years and 2 months old | 18 lbs

I was petting my dog and just noticed this wound. I think she had a boil under her skin that popped. I cleaned out all of the pus with soap and water. Doe she need stitches or antibiotics? Do I need to clean it some other way? It’s pretty deep and I can see her tissue moving underneath. (She also cried while I was cleaning it)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2020

It looks like a cyst has ruptured. I don't think it needs stitches. It should heal OK, however, the cyst may form again. If that happens, you should probably have it surgically removed before it ruptures again.

I recommend you apply this wound spray gel 3-4 times per day and if it is not looking better by next Monday/Tuesday then you should consider a vet exam.

https://www.allivet.com/p-2842-vetericyn-vf-plus-wound-skin-care-hydrogel-spray.aspx
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